Here are seven of the Open stars we'll be keeping our eyes on over the course of the weekend to help us boost our golfing knowledge.

1. Tiger Woods

Arguably the most iconic golfer around, Tiger Woods is impossible to ignore. He came out on top last time The Open was hosted at Royal Liverpool, and despite having not won a major since 2008, he says he's going for the Claret Jug this time around.

2. Adam Scott

The current number one on the Official World Golf Rankings, Aussie Scott is sure to race to the top of the casual viewer's list. And it's his 34th birthday today. Great week all round.

3. Sergio Garcia

Probably the most eligible bachelor at Hoylake this week, Sergio Garcia is one of the biggest names on the Tour. And he says The Open is his favourite major, so he's bound to be in a good mood. Unless he narrowly misses out on the title, like he did in 2007, losing the play-off to Pádraig Harrington by one stroke.

4. Rafael Cabrera-Bello

Another Spaniard on the Tour, Rafael burst onto the scene as a 17-year-old amateur, finishing joint-fourth at the 2002 Spanish Open. Since then he has more than made a name for himself, winning the 2009 Austrian Open with the lowest round in the circuit's history. And luckily for us, he seems to enjoy a selfie or two on Twitter.

5. Gregory Bourdy

Gregory is the highest-ranked French golfer on the Official World Golf Rankings, and, perhaps just as prestigious, on this list. The 32-year-old's most high-profile victory came when he held off the challenge of Rory McIlroy to win the Hong Kong Open in 2009.

6. Paul Casey

Although he learned his golfing trade in Arizona, Paul born in Cheltenham. And, more importantly, he sports quite an impressive beard. If you're looking for someone to root for this weekend, Casey is your man.

7. Nick Watney

A blue-collar American, Watney broke into the top 10 rankings in 2011, and is out to prove himself at Hoylake. Personality-wise, he claims he can be "socially awkward" depending on the situation he's in. Hopefully not on the course.

Have we missed out your favourite golfer? Tweet us at @EchoWhatsOn and send us your suggestions.